With its motto of Design for Smiles, combined with its award-winning design of a wide range of homeware and lifestyle products, Marna is blazing a trail.
Founded in 1872 as a brush manufacturer, pioneering Japanese houseware company Marna has made various strategic decisions to navigate the global marketplace. It has evolved significantly over this time, expanding into a variety of product lines including kitchen items, bath accessories and shopping bags.
"Just because the JPY is low doesn’t mean that good business opportunities are instantly created for Japanese firms," company CEO Go Nagoya explains, noting the long process involved in decision-making and market strategies.
There is a clear understanding of the demographic challenges in Japan, such as a shrinking and aging population, which provides both obstacles and opportunities for the likes of Marna. But the company is not so dependent on fluctuations in the population as the need to create good lifestyle products continues to exist now more than ever.
The proactive approach to product innovation and customer satisfaction is clear, and another critical area for Marna is that of sustainability, something that influences product design and material choices.
"We have always been on the side of creating products that are friendly to the environment and of prolonging the life cycle of products," says Mr. Nagoya, who also highlights the company’s Shupatto shopping bag.
“We see potential in the Shupatto shopping bag overseas. When you do go shopping, customers often buy plastic bags, so we believe that by introducing our unique shopping bag, not only can we make our customers’ lives easier, but we can also contribute to sustainability at the same time. We are very proud of our Shupatto shopping bag, and we believe it is a bag for any occasion.”
User-friendliness another key factor for the company, Mr. Nagoya stresses, adding that real-world experiences of their designers, especially women, guide the development of practical and effective solutions. And when it comes to gaining recognition further afield, the impact of the breakthrough Shupatto umbrella, which went through around 100 prototypes before winning multiple international design awards, is evident. "Those awards are seen by us as prestige rather than a sales bullet point," the CEO says.
Looking ahead, there is a strong desire to introduce Marna products globally, with the potential of partnerships to reach diverse markets. The vision is not only about expanding product lines but also about nurturing a company culture that values creativity, dedication and a deep connection with both what is made and who makes them, leaving a legacy of passion and innovation that will inspire the next generation of Marna's leaders.
"I want the next generation to love the products, the company, and the employees," Mr. Nagoya concludes.
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